20220803 - Village Council Public Work Session Minutes
A REGULAR PUBLIC WORK SESSION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON AUGUST 3, 2022 AT 7:30 P.M.
1. CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE
Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 7:32 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call the following were present: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen. Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; Eileen Young, Deputy Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.
Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. There was a moment of silence for all men and women serving our nation, our first responders, and in memory of Ridgewood resident, Avon Morgan, a Bergen County Assistant Prosecutor who passed away tragically this week.
2. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Anne Burton Walsh, 112 South Irving Street, indicated that she wanted to speak about the issue of trees versus sidewalks. She stated that everyone wants to maintain a network of safe sidewalks and preserve healthy mature shade trees. Homeowners already assume the cost of repairing sidewalks adjacent to their property. In some cases, extra masonry work is needed to construct a sidewalk around a tree in order to preserve it or construct a ramp or bump-out which goes over tree roots in cases where the Village Arborist has determined that grinding the roots in order to level a sidewalk will kill or destabilize the tree. However, many residents either cannot or will not pay for this extra work, since repairing a sidewalk is costly enough, in which case the tree must be removed at Village expense, even though the tree may be healthy. This is causing the Village to spend taxpayer dollars to remove the tree, grind the stump, provide police oversight for safety, and plant a smaller tree. By her calculations, Ms. Walsh indicated that the cost to the Village is much more than if a homeowner paid for extra masonry to go around a tree or over tree roots. She said that one of her neighbors received a quote of $900.00 for constructing a cement ramp over the roots of their curbside tree on South Irving Street.
Ms. Walsh said that she wanted to request a moratorium on removing any healthy mature trees in the Village, where the fate of the tree depends upon the decision of the homeowner (whether or not to pay for extra masonry). In addition, she requested that the Village Council pass a resolution that monies in the Capital Budget, which are allocated to cutting down and replanting trees, be used to preserve these trees instead. A healthy mature tree provides shade and beauty, enhances property value, and reduces carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Ms. Walsh said that the onus of preserving such a tree should not be the responsibility of the homeowner but should instead be the responsibility of the Village.
Nancy Brennan Hill, 136 Doremus Avenue, echoed the comments made by Ms. Walsh. She stated that the trees in Ridgewood are a Village asset and should be preserved by the Village, rather than leaving a tree’s fate to the decision of a homeowner.
Kathryn Schmidt, 123 South Irving Street, said that she loves trees and the sidewalks throughout the Village. She mentioned how much she enjoys walking down a tree-lined street. However, she indicated that mature shade trees are constantly uprooting sidewalks. Homeowners have to decide whether they can afford to build the sidewalk around the tree or simply have the tree cut down. She suggested that homeowners should look into different technologies which are available for sidewalk construction, such as rubberized sidewalks. She mentioned that she has spoken with Mayor Knudsen in the past about this concept, which has been implemented in cities such as Charlotte and Kansas City in the United States and in Vancouver and Calgary, Canada.
Ms. Schmidt indicated that she and her husband researched companies on the internet which perform such work, and unfortunately the only companies who do this type of work only accept “big jobs” and will not do small jobs. However, as the shade trees continue to grow and uproot sidewalks, Ms. Schmidt said that she was hopeful that the Village could begin researching rubberized sidewalks to see how this can be implemented in the future on a larger scale. She also mentioned that there could be an opportunity for Shared Services Agreements with other municipalities. Ms. Schmidt also mentioned that the Village should mandate that homeowners consult with Village officials before commencing sidewalk repairs.
Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, said that he was pleased to see a discussion about Smart Controllers on the agenda this evening. As he stated at a previous meeting, it seems as though people who have Smart Controllers are entitled to water much more often than those who do not have these devices, which goes against the goal of water preservation. While he is restricted to water on certain days and at certain hours, as most Ridgewood residents are, Mr. Loving stated that his neighbors with Smart Controllers seem to be watering their lawns at any time they want and for as long as they want.
Mr. Loving stated that he appreciates the fact that Councilwoman Reynolds followed up on his comments and reached out to Ridgewood Water, whereby she found out that people with Smart Controllers installed are allowed to water up to 10 hours a day. The features on these systems can be bypassed by homeowners, according to Mr. Loving. He said that he doesn’t understand how this can possibly conserve water. In addition, he stated that enforcement of water conservation is difficult because staff is not aware of who has Smart Controllers installed and who does not. Although homeowners who have Smart Controllers installed must register with Ridgewood Water and have a sign on their window indicating same, the current Water Conservation Ordinance does not address this issue at all. Mr. Loving said that the only vague reference to Smart Controllers in the ordinance deals with whether or not Ridgewood Water can grant an exemption to people who have a Smart Controller installed. The ordinance does not specify what the exemption is or specify the procedure for registering or displaying the permit. Since these items are not contained in the ordinance, violators cannot be fined.
Regarding trees in Ridgewood which are being removed by Village staff due to sidewalk construction, Mr. Loving said he could not understand how this is happening. He said that someone anonymously sent an email to the Engineering Department listing almost 200 addresses in Ridgewood where sidewalks were in need of repair or replacement. Mr. Loving stated that Village officials “acted upon” an anonymous email, which started this whole cycle of sidewalk construction and tree removals. It seems to Mr. Loving that this was all started by a contractor looking to make some money. He wondered why the Village would “jump” on an anonymous email like that without doing a proper investigation of the origins of the email. He said he doubted whether the email was sent by a resident who was walking around Ridgewood with their dog.
Steven (Stephan Gahadalini?) Giri Gridhar, 132 (Liberty?) South Irving Street, indicated that he was speaking this evening to support his neighbors on South Irving Street. Several trees on that street are slated for removal. He echoed the concerns of those who just spoke regarding the preservation of trees. Some of these trees appear to be 50+ years old, and Mr. Gridhar said that the process to cut these trees down is “quite speedy and not transparent.” He said that a 50+ year old tree cannot be easily replaced since it takes years to grow. He stated that more time should be taken to investigate the removal of such trees and the costs associated with same.
Beth Gould Creller, 719 Belmont Road, indicated that she was speaking this evening as a representative of the EAGER (Encouraging Alternative Green Energy for Ridgewood) subcommittee of Green Ridgewood. Ms. Creller indicated that the objective of the EAGER subcommittee is to purchase electricity that is generated by a higher percentage of renewably sourced energy than what Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G) currently offers most Ridgewood customers. With the Municipal Energy Aggregation Program, the Village will be able to solicit bids from, and contract with, third party electricity suppliers in order to reduce the cost of electricity to Ridgewood residents. Professional advice will be needed, since energy supply is such a complicated industry, to research “greener” sources of energy. The Village and/or Ridgewood residents will not be required to pay such a consultant; however, Ms. Creller indicated that third party suppliers will “roll” that fee into the price which is ultimately decided.
Ms. Creller spoke about the proposals which have been received by the Village for the Energy Aggregation Program consultant, including Gabel Associates, Inc. She asked how quickly the Village Council could act (in accepting a bid) in order for this to be accomplished, since time is of the essence regarding energy pricing. She wondered where Ridgewood would “sit” on the list of Gabel’s clients, whether Ridgewood would be given priority over other towns, or whether Ridgewood would have to join forces with other towns in order to obtain better pricing. She spoke about another bidder, Good Energy LP, which states on page 25 of their proposal that they are in final negotiations for the development of an opt-in program for the generation of carbon offsets. She said that this was supplemental to the aggregation and would be offered at no cost to participants in the program. Ms. Creller indicated that many compelling points in the Good Energy LP bid are aligned with the strategic initiatives for sustainability set forth by the Green Team and included in the proposed Master Plan.
There were no further comments from the public.
Mayor Knudsen stated that the anonymous email referred to by Mr. Loving should be investigated. In addition, she wondered whether a “pause” could be placed on tree removals in the Village until this issue has been resolved, if trees are indeed being removed due to sidewalk construction. Ms. Mailander replied that the tree removals slated for South Irving Street are currently on pause. She also indicated that she could issue an edict to the Shade Tree Department that any healthy trees scheduled for removal should not be removed (if grinding roots to accommodate sidewalk construction would destabilize the tree). This edict would not apply to trees which definitely need to be removed (such as those that are dead or diseased).
Mayor Knudsen spoke about a possible pilot program for rubberized sidewalks in the Village. Councilwoman Perron asked whether rubberized sidewalks were permeable and, if so, she would be in favor of such a pilot program since it would be beneficial for stormwater runoff. Mayor Knudsen said that they had been researching this internally a while ago, perhaps in 2017, in certain areas where concrete sidewalks could not be constructed due to the landscape features. She mentioned that this could be a good option in order to save some trees. Councilwoman Perron asked Ms. Schmidt if she had any pictures of rubberized sidewalks. Mayor Knudsen said that she was the one who had sent the pictures to Ms. Schmidt and that she (Mayor Knudsen) would send the pictures to all Village Councilmembers.
Councilman Vagianos stated that no one wants to see a healthy tree removed under any circumstances and, therefore, he is in favor of a temporary moratorium on the cutting down of trees until such time as the Engineering Department has a chance to look into the rubberized sidewalks and provide information to the Village Councilmembers regarding same. In this way, they would be well informed and could discuss alternative ways to prevent trees from being removed in the event a homeowner does not want to or cannot pay for the extra masonry to erect a sidewalk around a tree or over a tree’s roots.
Councilwoman Reynolds remarked that she drove down South Irving Street today and the sidewalks have already been removed and are roped off. Therefore, some decisions must be made quickly before the start of school in September, since there are many children who traverse these sidewalks. Mayor Knudsen stated that the Engineering Department is already looking into this (confirmed by Ms. Mailander).
3. MANAGER’S REPORT
Ms. Mailander indicated that nominating packets for Ridgewood residents, who are registered voters and wish to run for and serve as a Councilmember on the Ridgewood Village Council, are available in the Village Clerk’s Office. The deadline for filing completed nominating petitions is September 6, 2022. This year, there are two positions up for election, with four-year terms, to serve on the nonpartisan Village Council. These positions will be voted on at the November 8, 2022 Municipal Election during the General Election. The newly elected Councilmembers will be sworn in and take office in January of 2023.
Current employment and volunteer opportunities are posted on the Village website at www.ridgewoodnj.net. Green Ridgewood, Project Pride, and the Ridgewood Green Team Advisory Committee are currently looking for new members. The deadline to apply for these positions is August 12, 2022.
Ms. Mailander asked everyone to please conserve water. The warm weather and sparse rain have depleted water resources. Firefighters need water in the event of an emergency.
Ms. Mailander gave updates on the Schedler property work and the Zabriskie-Schedler house. The contractor for the fence berm, irrigation and trees should be resuming work by next week. The Village has sent some revisions to the draft plan for the remainder of the property to the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and is awaiting their comments and approval to move forward on another phase of the development of the property. Contracts for the final phase of the restoration of the Zabriskie-Schedler house have been signed. A pre-construction meeting was held last week with Ridgewood of Village staff, Connolly & Hickey (historical architects), and the contractor, and work should commence shortly.
Ms. Mailander indicated that she wanted to clear up some confusion which residents have about the hours of operation of Graydon Pool. Graydon Pool will be open through Labor Day, following the current hours which are in place. This information is also posted on the Village website. Graydon Pool notifications are now generated through the Recycle Coach app. Residents should “opt in” to receive these notifications from the app. Ms. Mailander thanked Mayor Knudsen and the staff of the Parks and Recreation Department for their efforts in implementing this feature on the Recycle Coach app.
The movie “Sing 2” will be shown at Graydon Pool this Friday, August 5, 2022. Admission is $5.00 per person (either cash or check). The rain date is August 6, 2022. The movie starts at dusk. Everyone should bring a chair or blanket. The Water’s Edge Café will be open until the movie starts.
Additional lifeguards are still being sought for Graydon Pool. Tennis and pickleball memberships are available through CommunityPass. Hours for both pickleball and tennis are from 8:00 A.M. to dusk. A variety of Ridgewood mini-camps are taking place in August (sign up on CommunityPass or at The Stable). These camps include Skateboard Summer Camp, Ultimate Frisbee, Digital Photography and Videography, and Garden Arts.
“Sidewalk Sale Days” in Ridgewood will be held on August 4, 5 and 6, 2022 from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. On August 6, 2022 from 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M., a mini “Touch a Truck” display will take place at Van Neste Square along the park side and also at the Train Station parking lot on the west side. Residents of all ages can get a close-up look at Village trucks of all sizes. Sidewalk chalk art activities will be held on Saturday, August 6th, and there will be arts and crafts and musical entertainment as well.
Music in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square will be presented on Saturday and Sunday nights during the summer months. The Ridgewood Guild will be showing two more free movies in the park. On Wednesday, August 10, at 8:30 P.M., “Clueless” will be shown, and on Wednesday, August 24th at 9:00 P.M., the movie “All About Eve” will be shown.
The Ridgewood Guild sponsors “Music in the Night,” which will held at various locations throughout the Central Business District (CBD) on Friday nights through Labor Day. The Ridgewood Guild also sponsors “Art in the Park.” This will take place on Friday, August 5th. Pinot’s Palette provides the art, which is both for viewing and for sale.
The last performance at the Kasschau Memorial Shell will be held on August 4, 2022 at 8:30 P.M. Shows are free to the public. Individuals interested in attending this free performance should bring a chair or blanket with them. The senior bus provided free transportation to five of the bandshell concerts held this summer on Tuesday nights. On the first night, there were two riders on the bus, and on the last night there were seven riders. It is hoped that the senior bus will be used next year for this purpose as well.
The Bergen County Utilities Authority (BCUA) will be holding a recycling event for mobile paper shredding until the truck is full, electronics and computers, and unwanted medication. Commercial and business vehicles or waste are not permitted. Proof of Bergen County residency is required. The event will be held at Bergen Community College on Paramus Road in Paramus on August 6, 2022 from 9 A.M. to 2:00 P.M., rain or shine.
Ms. Mailander mentioned that there was a fire in one of the Village’s garbage trucks last week, due to a laptop computer being thrown into the general trash. When the garbage truck tried to compact the trash in the truck, the computer caught on fire. Luckily, this was noticed immediately by the sanitation crew and the Fire Department was summoned to put out the fire. The truck was fortunately not damaged and there were no injuries. Ms. Mailander urged all residents to properly dispose of their electronics at the Recycling Center or at a BCUA event and not to put them in garbage containers for regular pickup. This could have been a terrible disaster.
The Farmers Market is celebrating their 22nd Anniversary. They will be open from 8:30 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. on the west side of the Ridgewood Train Station parking lot. The Farmers Market will be open on Sundays usually through October or early November.
Upcoming Village Council meetings are broadcast live from the Village Hall Courtroom, on the Village website, and on FIOS Channel 34. Upcoming Village Council Work Sessions will be held on September 7 and September 28, 2022 at 7:30 P.M. The next Public Meetings are scheduled for August 10 and September 14, 2022 at 8:00 P.M.
Mayor Knudsen thanked Johanna Lutrell for her quick action in reaching out to Recycle Coach technicians in order to add Graydon Pool notifications to the Recycle Coach app.
4. COUNCIL REPORTS
Councilman Vagianos indicated that he met with the Stigma-Free Committee on July 19, 2022 and thanked everyone for attending during the hot summer. He said that the members of this committee are very enthusiastic about the events they sponsor. A Covid-19 booster shot event for children was held in June, in conjunction with “Music Under the Stars.” In July, there was a “Balance and Thrive” event promoting good health for Ridgewood residents at the Ridgewood Library. This latter program will again be held on November 15, 2022.
The Health Department has applied for a new grant beginning in 2023 to be utilized to address emerging viruses. Councilman Vagianos said that it seems a new virus is popping up each week. The diseases to be addressed will be Lyme Disease, West Nile Virus, Hepatitis-B, Covid-19, and Monkey Pox. In addition, Councilman Vagianos announced that the Health Department will begin receiving grants, which will continue for many years, as a result of the opioid settlement. They will receive a $9,000.00 grant at the beginning, and it is anticipated that that amount will increase over time.
The Ridgewood Police Department is sponsoring a Food Truck and Bouncy House event on October 9, 2022 as a fundraiser for cancer research. This will be held in the Graydon North parking lot.
On November 3, 2022 at 9:00 A.M., there will be a Senior Health and Wellness Fair. Councilman Vagianos indicated that further details regarding this event can be found on the Ridgewood Health Department website.
Councilwoman Perron indicated that the Open Space Committee conducted another park walk, led by Fran Barto. She gave a tour of Graydon Pool, which was very educational in terms of the pool’s history and its operations. The next Open Space Park Walk is going to be held on September 24, 2022 at Pleasant Park, led by Jim Bossler.
The Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) met for the first time in person, since the Covid-19 pandemic started, via a hybrid meeting. Their speaker was John Saraceno, a local developer, who presented the results of a survey conducted at two properties which he recently developed in Ridgewood: NoMa and The Benjamin. Councilwoman Perron said that the results were interesting: 75% of the respondents said that they eat and shop in downtown Ridgewood. The members of CBDAC also discussed the suggestion made by the Chamber of Commerce that it would be helpful in assessing the pros and cons of pedestrian plazas by analyzing parking data from 2022 and 2021. The members of CBDAC thought it would be helpful to also analyze data from 2019 and 2020. Councilwoman Perron feels that doing such an analysis on the parking data would be very helpful.
Councilwoman Reynolds indicated that the Planning Board met on July 19, 2022, which was an organizational meeting. Steve Wellinghorst was appointed as their Board Attorney. Board members were sworn in to continue their terms: Mayor Knudsen, Class I; John Young, Class II, Councilwoman Reynolds, Class III; James Van Goor, Class IV; Richard Joel, Class IV (who is also the Chairman); Melanie Hooban, Class IV; and Igor Lyubarskiy, Alternate #1. The Conflict Planner, Beth McManus, was in attendance at the meeting to discuss the potential plans for constructing affordable housing on the Valley Hospital property (once, and if, it is vacated). This site has been designated as an Area in Need of Redevelopment by the Village of Ridgewood. John Barry from Heyer Gruel (Village Planners) was in attendance at the meeting to review the draft of the Master Plan. The previous Village Planner has retired. The Public Meeting and vote for the Master Plan has been moved to September 20, 2022. Councilwoman Reynolds encouraged everyone to attend. The proposed Master Plan is being reviewed by the committee for typos and mistakes and should be posted shortly on the website.
The Project Pride Committee continues to give out the Sunflower Stake Awards to residents for beautiful landscaping and gardening in their front yards. Every two weeks, six houses are chosen to receive the award. Councilwoman Reynolds thanked everyone for their participation in this event.
Councilwoman Reynolds asked Ms. Mailander about the timeline during which the berm will be constructed on the Schedler property. It was her understanding that the berm would be completed in June, although Ms. Mailander announced at this evening’s meeting that work will commence next week. Ms. Mailander replied that the work was delayed. The work needs to be completed by September 28, 2022 or there will be penalties assessed against the contractor. Mayor Knudsen remarked that there was someone working on the property today.
Deputy Mayor Sedon indicated that he had nothing to report.
Mayor Knudsen indicated that the Library Board of Trustees met last week. They continue to work on the details of the Pease Library lease. They also discussed the option of the Ridgewood Library renovation project being done in stages, rather than all at once. The members of the Library Board of Trustees are currently visiting different libraries in the area to observe renovations done at those sites, to learn how long the renovations took to be completed, and to learn how these libraries fared with doing the construction work in stages. It is recognized that residents’ needs change over time, and the two most important renovations are the staircase on the main level (not user-friendly and not readily visible) and the Teen Room.
The Ridgewood Community Access Network (CAN) for the special needs community in Ridgewood also met last week. The Access Weekend is being planned for October 7-9, 2022 (?). A senior citizen event will be held to present special programming on current issues that many senior citizens grapple with, and there will be a children’s concert featuring Marlene [Pillow] on Saturday, October 10, 2022 (?). There will also be a fashion show held in a hybrid format (Zoom and live). The Community Fair will be held in the Ridgewood Library auditorium. There will be a religious service held through the Friends to Friends Community Church on Prospect Street. Notices will be sent out shortly publicizing these events. Mayor Knudsen encouraged everyone to attend. She mentioned the new special needs housing, Ridgewood Commons, which has been recently constructed in partnership with United Way of Bergen County and Madeline Corporation.
Mayor Knudsen announced that she and Councilwoman Perron attended the ribbon-cutting of StretchLab at 204 East Ridgewood Avenue. The trained flexologists there provide assisted stretching and flexibility training, which Mayor Knudsen indicated is very beneficial. She mentioned that they have a MAPS (mobility assessment) machine which shows individuals where the “troubled areas” are on their body and how they can improve their overall mobility. Councilwoman Perron remarked that stretching is great for relieving tension and improving productivity. Mayor Knudsen encouraged everyone to visit StretchLab. She remarked that there has been a record number of ribbon cuttings recently, which adds to the vibrancy of the Village’s historic Central Business District.
Mayor Knudsen indicated that she has received numerous complaints about the condition of the roadway on Linwood Avenue (a County road). It is her understanding that Linwood Avenue is scheduled to be repaved by Bergen County. She asked Ms. Mailander if she could reach out to the County to find out the timeframe for the repaving. Ms. Mailander replied that she will notify everyone of the schedule once she has received it from the County. Ms. Mailander mentioned that Franklin Avenue was supposed to be repaved this year, but the County has not yet responded to her follow-up calls. Mayor Knudsen explained that there is a Shared Services Agreement with regard to the Franklin Avenue corridor repaving project
5. DISCUSSION
A. RIDGEWOOD WATER
1. WATER CONSERVATION ORDINANCE FOR SMART CONTROLLERS
Rich Calbi, Director of Ridgewood Water, indicated that he reviewed the comments made by the public at recent Village Council meetings regarding Water Conservation Ordinance No. 3588 (adopted in 2017) and the concerns regarding Smart Controllers. Mr. Calbi said that there were originally four stages of water restrictions (Stages I through IV). In past years, around April or May, Stage I restrictions would become effective, allowing for watering three days a week, and shortly thereafter, in June, the Village immediately advanced to Stage II restrictions, allowing for watering only twice a week. It was ultimately decided in 2017 that Stage II restrictions would become permanently enforced year-round. This would make it easier to make any changes to the ordinance in the future, although Mr. Calbi conceded that he was not sure if permanent conditions such as this were enforceable legally.
Mr. Calbi explained that, at that time, they studied a Sustainable New Jersey model ordinance that was prepared by the State of New Jersey and Rutgers University. That model ordinance contained an outline of certain exemptions, one of which was the use of Smart Controllers for irrigation of lawns or plantings from midnight to 10:00 A.M. Village Ordinance No. 3588 was modeled after this Sustainable New Jersey model ordinance. Smart Controllers use less water than conventional in-ground sprinklers, which are allowed to be used from 3:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. The requirements surrounding Smart Controllers are not codified in the ordinance adopted in 2017.
Mr. Calbi indicated that some homeowners have been issued warnings and/or tickets because they were watering their lawns with Smart Controllers outside of the permitted hours. Out of the 21,000+ accounts held by Ridgewood Water, 345 account holders have a Smart Controller permit (292 in the Village and the rest in the other three towns serviced by Ridgewood Water). Homeowners must fill out paperwork and provide documentation to Ridgewood Water in order to get the permit.
Once the permit has been issued, homeowners are given a blue placard with white printing to place in their front window or on a stick in their front yard, which alerts staff that these properties have Smart Controllers. These permits must be recertified every year. Mr. Calbi said that when a permit is issued, it is assumed that homeowners are “watering smart.” The controllers are programmed to water on the basis of weather or soil conditions. If homeowners are bypassing the Smart Controller system and decide to water every day, they are in violation of the ordinance. Mr. Calbi indicated that they cannot totally control these actions by homeowners, but they do go around the Village to observe compliance. He said that hundreds of summonses and tickets have been issued for violations.
Mr. Calbi agreed that some changes need to be made to the Water Conservation Ordinance. He said that Ridgewood Water has tried to be as flexible as possible with homeowners since 2017. The State of New Jersey required that Smart Controllers be programmed by a State-certified programmer, although it was discovered that there was only one such technician in the entire state in 2017. Realizing that this would place an undue burden on homeowners and make it impossible for them to comply with this requirement, Ridgewood Water has allowed homeowners to purchase Smart Controllers and install and program the devices themselves. Smart Controllers may be purchased for $200.00 or less. Smart Controllers in production today have modules which can connect to Wi-Fi and access weather forecasts. With the recent dry and hot weather, these Smart Controllers have been watering more. Mr. Calbi conceded that this may not be entirely fair to people who do not own Smart Controllers, and therefore the ordinance could be amended to make watering by Smart Controllers more restrictive.
Councilwoman Reynolds asked Mr. Calbi what the Smart Controller permit recertification entailed. Mr. Calbi said that every spring, an email is sent out to all Smart Controller permit holders with a recertification form, which contains a statement, “Thank you for watering smart. The 2021 conservation program was successful as a result of your water saving commitment. The 2021 summer demand was sustainable for Ridgewood Water operations. To ensure that your water saving commitment continues, please complete and return the form below to recertify your system for 2022. By signing below, I attest that my Smart Controller system has not changed and agree to the Smart Controller permit conditions and requirements for smart irrigation control and certify that my system has been programmed based on proper sprinkler head data, soil conditions, plant and irrigation data.” Mr. Calbi reiterated that it is difficult to enforce the water restrictions, despite homeowner attestations on this form.
Councilwoman Reynolds said that it was her understanding that it is recommended that lawns receive one to two inches of water a week. Mr. Calbi replied that it is one inch of water per week. Councilwoman Reynolds asked Mr. Calbi if he knew how much water a lawn would receive if it was watered once or twice a week with an underground sprinkler. Mr. Calbi replied that the amount varies, depending upon the type of sprinkler head used. Each type of sprinkler head releases a certain flow. However, the flow from each sprinkler head is supposed to be regulated by the Smart Controller.
Councilwoman Reynolds said that, to be fair to all residents, homeowners with Smart Controllers need to abide by the same restrictions as homeowners who do not own such devices (3:00 A.M. to 7:00 A.M.), perhaps adding one or two extra days for those with Smart Controllers, with no watering on Mondays, Thursdays or Fridays. Councilwoman Perron agreed with Councilwoman Reynolds. She added that the amendment to the Water Conservation Ordinance should include a provision that the Smart Controller placard must be visible from the street. Councilwoman Perron added that she felt more enforcement was necessary.
Mr. Calbi indicated that enforcement is generally performed at night, so that his staff may perform their regular responsibilities during the day, unless a staff member notices some watering going on during the day while driving around. He said that employees are paid extra to perform nightly enforcement; there is no person strictly dedicated to enforcement detail. He said that most violations occur at night.
Councilman Vagianos asked Mr. Calbi what a Smart Controller is and how it saves water. Mr. Calbi stated that there are many controllers in the market which can be controlled with a cell phone, which is not necessarily a “Smart” controller. A true “Smart Controller” is one which is controlled by “other intelligence” with programmed weather data (whether gleaned from the internet or programmed on a daily basis) and a soil sensor (probe in ground which sends information to the controller of the wet or dry soil condition). The controllers are programmed based on different zones, depending on the amount of shade or sun a portion of lawn receives per day. An efficient Smart Controller contains all of these features, but does not necessarily have to have all of these features, since the extra modules cost more. The most important feature is the weather control.
Councilman Vagianos asked how a Smart Controller saves water. Mr. Calbi said that when a Smart Controller is programmed correctly, it activates only when the soil is dry. He said he would have to do some research, but according to the State of New Jersey and Rutgers University, Smart Controllers are supposed to conserve water over time. He will try to get further information to share with the Village Councilmembers. When questioned by Councilman Vagianos whether or not a Smart Controller would activate every day if the temperature were 100 degrees for several days, Mr. Calbi replied that that was a possibility. Councilman Vagianos couldn’t understand how this could be “water efficient” since the Smart Controllers would activate every day during a very dry spell, such as what has been experienced in Ridgewood over the past few weeks, unless the controllers compensate for when there has been rain. Mr. Calbi replied that it was his understanding that the controllers save water over time, but indicated that he would research this further and get back to the Village Councilmembers.
Councilwoman Perron added that, in theory, Smart Controllers prevent overwatering. However, Councilwoman Reynolds stated that homeowners can override the programming of Smart Controllers so that they can basically water every day.
Mayor Knudsen stated that the reasoning behind conserving water is to ensure that water pressure and capacity would be sufficient in case of an emergency, such as a fire. She said that if every Ridgewood resident were to install Smart Controllers, water capacity and water pressure would be quickly depleted. Mayor Knudsen agreed with Councilwomen Reynolds and Perron that water restrictions should be applied equally to everyone served by Ridgewood Water.
Deputy Mayor Sedon asked Mr. Calbi whether he could obtain a sample of properties outfitted with Smart Controllers (from permit applications) and examine the water usage on these accounts both before and after the installation of the Smart Controller devices. Mr. Calbi replied that this could certainly be accomplished. Such an analysis could perhaps also reveal whether or not any homeowners have overridden the programming of their Smart Controllers.
Councilwoman Perron said that she was also interested in learning whether the ordinance has resulted in water conservation since 2017. Mr. Calbi stated that since the ordinance was enacted in 2017, the Village has not had to go beyond Stage II water restrictions. He noted that prior to 2017, the Village had been compelled to declare either Stage III or Stage IV water restrictions. He estimated that approximately 50% of Ridgewood Water customers adhere to the water restrictions. When staff find violations during the night, they can only issue warnings to customers who do not reside in Ridgewood, since they are not permitted to issue tickets to out-of-town homeowners serviced by Ridgewood Water. However, the addresses where violations occur are brought to the attention of town administrators for appropriate action.
Councilwoman Reynolds asked Mr. Calbi if he knew what percentage of people appear in court to contest a ticket for a water violation. Mr. Calbi said that he could find out that information for her. The initial summons does not require a court appearance and the fine is $85.00. The next violation requires a court appearance. He mentioned that some homeowners have received a multitude of summonses every year for violations.
Mayor Knudsen stated that she thought Deputy Mayor Sedon’s idea was a good one and agreed with Councilwoman Reynolds’ comments. Councilwoman Reynolds added that the time restrictions should also be contained in the ordinance. Mr. Calbi said that the days and times when homeowners can water could be codified in the ordinance. Councilman Vagianos indicated that he would like to receive more information before any changes are made in the ordinance. It was decided that this matter would be discussed at a future Village Council meeting once the relevant information has been obtained and furnished to the Village Councilmembers by Mr. Calbi.
On a different topic, Mr. Calbi indicated that, in the past, the Village totally lost a garbage truck due to electronics being tossed in the regular garbage pickup, the same thing which caused the recent fire in a Village garbage truck. Electronics such as laptops, computers, cell phones, tablets, and lawnmowers should not be placed in regular garbage containers. Mr. Calbi added that some people leave fuel in devices such as lawnmowers, which should be emptied before being put out for bulk pickup.
Mayor Knudsen asked what a person would be fined if they deliberately placed an electronic device in the regular garbage rather than taking it for proper disposal at the Recycling Center. Mr. Calbi said that it was very difficult to pinpoint who the offender actually was; however, in the prior garbage truck fire, they were able to identify the offender and successfully file a claim through their insurance carrier. The resident was also issued summonses, but Mr. Calbi said that he was unaware of what fines were levied on the homeowner.
B. PARKING
1. ORDINANCE TO RESTRICT PARKING – MORNINGSIDE ROAD AND CALIFORNIA STREET
Ms. Mailander indicated that this item deals with an ordinance to restrict parking at the intersection of California Street and Morningside Road, which is in the area of Willard School. When vehicles are parked along the east curb area of the northbound direction of Morningside Road as it approaches California Street, those vehicles obstruct the sight lines of the crossing guard. They also obstruct the vision of drivers trying to make a left turn from California Street onto Morningside Road. Mr. Rutishauser has recommended restricting parking along the north bound section of Morningside Road for the portion 120 feet south of the southerly curb line of California Street between the school inflow (8:00 A.M. to 9:00 A.M.) and outflow (2:30 P.M. to 3:30 P.M.) times during the school year only (September 1 to June 30). The ordinance will assist in creating better visibility for students entering and exiting Willard School.
Mayor Knudsen indicated that there had previously been discussions in February of this year regarding a survey being performed with neighbors living near the intersection of Hamilton Avenue and Morningside Road, with the goal of improving safety in that area. Mayor Knudsen asked Ms. Mailander if she could follow up with Mr. Rutishauser on this issue. Ms. Mailander replied that she would do so.
Councilwoman Perron indicated that this new restriction is not burdensome. The 120 feet represents approximately one house property length from the corner. She added that there are plenty of areas near the school where parents can drop off their children. She thinks that this ordinance will provide a good safety measure.
Mayor Knudsen asked whether or not the impacted neighbors in the vicinity of the intersection of California Street and Morningside Road would be forewarned of this parking restriction. She recalled that this notification procedure was enacted previously by the Mayor and Council. Ms. Mailander replied that this was not usually done, but it would be done if requested specifically. Mayor Knudsen said that she would like to see neighbors notified who reside within 200 feet of the impacted area, citing a previous change which was enacted without notification, which resulted in many complaints by neighbors who were unaware of the change.
Ms. Mailander said that the usual procedure is to introduce the ordinance and announce the public hearing on the ordinance, during which time neighbors will be given the opportunity to speak. Mayor Knudsen indicated that, in the past, Mr. Rutishauser allowed residents to merely send in emails with their comments. Ms. Mailander indicated that this could be done as well.
2. HUDSON STREET PARKING GARAGE WAYFINDING SIGNS
Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the Hudson Street Parking Garage Wayfinding Signs. She said that the two signs on display were smaller than the prototype originally shown at a recent Village Council meeting. She thanked Mayor Knudsen for her suggestions that the “P” be made large without the “arking” and the word “garage” in large letters under the “P” and arrow. This will be clear to drivers who want to park in the parking garage rather than in a parking lot. The Village Councilmembers viewed various color pictures contained in a packet supplied to them showing the various locations throughout the CBD where the signs would be placed (both the larger and smaller signs).
Ms. Mailander thanked Dylan Hansen and Dave Hefferan from the Signal Department for taking the photographs on such a hot, sweltering day. She pointed out that the arrows on the signs will differ. Some will point straight forward, and some will point either to the right or left. Ms. Mailander said that she would recommend the smaller of the two signs, as the larger ones may create too much “sign pollution.”
Councilwoman Reynolds stated that she felt the larger signs would be appropriate in certain areas. She said that the larger signs were more visible. Ms. Mailander indicated that a combination of both sizes could be used. Councilman Vagianos said that most people don’t see signs and, while the smaller signs blend in nicely, they are not as visible as the larger signs. He indicated that he likes the signs, both small and large. He pointed out the two signs by Felina on Ridgewood Avenue and stated that he almost couldn’t see the smaller sign but that the larger one was very visible without being “garish” or overly large. He said that the larger signs could be used on the major arteries and the smaller (secondary) signs on the side streets. He said that everyone should keep in mind that the Hudson Street Parking Garage is nearly empty and “bleeding money.” Therefore, people need to be aware of the existence of the parking garage. Everyone was in agreement with using the signs in this manner, as suggested by Councilman Vagianos.
Councilman Vagianos asked if the marketing and advertising of the parking garage would also be taking place. Ms. Mailander indicated that this matter would be brought back to the Village Council in September so that staff would have more time to research Google Ads and other marketing/advertising tools. Councilwoman Perron mentioned that the IT Department also worked up the link for parking information, which was shared with the Chamber of Commerce, and their “hits” went up enormously.
3. PARKING SPACES ON MAPLE AVENUE FOR NEW RIDGEWOOD WATER HEADQUARTERS
Ms. Mailander indicated that Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, wrote two memos regarding the three parking spaces on North Maple Avenue in front of the new Ridgewood Water headquarters. He has determined that there is ample room to accommodate these three parking spaces, as well as ample room for cars to pass when cars are parked on North Maple Avenue in front of Village Hall. The entrance driveway for the new offices from North Maple Avenue to the rear of the Library parking lot will be made one way. The building should hopefully be completed by mid-September 2022.
It is recommended that these parking spaces (one of which will be a handicapped spot) and the one-way entrance be memorialized by an ordinance in order to allow enforcement, if necessary. The parking spaces in front will be 30-minute spaces, Monday through Friday, 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M., except holidays. This ordinance will be introduced next week if everyone is in agreement.
Councilwoman Reynolds asked if a person could park in one of those spaces after 4:30 P.M. Ms. Mailander said that a person could park longer than 30 minutes after 4:30 P.M.
Councilwoman Perron said that when she looks at the diagram, there doesn’t seem to be enough space. Councilwoman Reynolds agreed with Councilwoman Perron and stated that it seemed as though these parking spaces may present a visual “blockage” to drivers. However, both Councilmembers said that they would defer to Mr. Rutishauser’s judgment. Councilwoman Perron added that the opposite may be true, that it may present as a traffic calming measure. Mr. Calbi agreed. Councilwoman Reynolds mentioned that she was afraid drivers would not see pedestrians crossing in the adjacent crosswalk. Mr. Calbi indicated that the parking spots are spaced legally far enough away from the crosswalk. Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that that particular crosswalk has a blinking pedestrian crossing sign as well.
Councilman Vagianos asked how close these parking spaces were to the crosswalk. Mr. Calbi said that he did not know, but that it was over 20 feet because there is the whole width of the adjacent driveway apron. Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney, indicated that there is a certain legal distance that has to be maintained between on-street parking and a crosswalk. Councilman Vagianos thought that the required distance was 50 feet. Mr. Rogers remarked that he is sure Mr. Rutishauser would have taken the required distance into consideration when he did his field measurements. Mayor Knudsen said that this plan has also been reviewed by the Planning Board, and it was acknowledged that there was sufficient space to create these parking spaces.
Ms. Mailander said that everyone’s concerns will be noted.
4. PARKING REGULATIONS FOR MAIN PARKING LOT AT MUNICIPAL COMPLEX
Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to changes to the parking regulations for the main parking lot at the Municipal Complex. She stated that during the school year, the main parking lot is being used by students at Ridgewood High School to park their cars for the day. They park there early in the morning and are there until late afternoon, around 4:00 P.M. or later, depending upon after school activities. During the school year, activities at the Community Center and Ridgewood Library increase during the day, with exercise classes, knitting and painting classes, meditation, and other courses. As a result, it becomes difficult for drivers to find parking spots that are available in the lot after 9:30 A.M., especially if the 12 or more parking spaces are being taken up by the students all day long. The lot is also used by residents conducting business at Village Hall and by people utilizing the walking path (track) or playground.
It is recommended that an ordinance be adopted restricting the parking at the lot from 7:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., limiting parking to those conducting business or working at Village Hall, patronizing or working at the Ridgewood Library, or physically utilizing the walking path or playground at Veterans Field.
In the past, Ms. Mailander indicated that Ridgewood High School students parked their vehicles at either of the two parking lots near Graydon Pool, since the pool is closed by that time of year. Flyers have been put onto the windshields of the students’ cars which are parked in the municipal lot, making them aware of the proper lots in which they should be parking. However, some students continue to park in the municipal lot because it is closer to the high school. Chief of Police Luthcke has indicated that if there were such an ordinance, it would be easier to convince the students to park where they are supposed to park, since the ordinance would allow summonses to be issued to offenders. Warnings would initially be issued. Additional signage could be erected setting forth the parking restriction hours.
Councilwoman Perron has also noticed students parking in the municipal lot, and she thanked Chief Luthcke for addressing this issue. Councilman Vagianos asked how one would know whether or not a particular car belonged to a student. Ms. Mailander replied that there are cameras in the municipal lot and, in addition, Village employees have noticed students parking there and all walking to the high school together. The students have also been observed walking back to their cars at 3:15 P.M. after school. If the police note a car constantly parked at the lot, they can run a license plate number to see to whom the car belongs. Ms. Mailander added that the police are familiar with the cars owned by Village employees. In addition, anyone visiting the library, exercising in the park, or conducting business at Village Hall are normally not parked in the lot all day long.
Everyone was in agreement that the ordinance can be introduced next week.
C. BUDGET
1. REVIEW OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AS OF JUNE 30, 2022
Ms. Mailander indicated that this is a review of the financial statements as of June 30, 2022. Robert G. Rooney, Chief Financial Officer, presented to the Village Councilmembers an overview of the Current Fund Revenues and Appropriations, Water Utility Fund Revenues and Appropriations, and Parking Fund Utility Revenues and Appropriations as of June 30, 2022. He stated that Current Fund revenues are slightly ahead of what was projected for the first six months of this year, primarily due to the influx of recreation fees and permits. No aid has yet been received from the State, which normally starts being received in August (approximately $1.8 million). One-time revenues received are about 84% of what was anticipated in the 2022 Budget, primarily due to “cash in house” that is allowed to be moved over to the Current Fund Budget. The overall revenue stream for this fund is about 52% of what was budgeted for six months.
Mr. Rooney indicated that the appropriations for the Current (General) Fund are approximately what was targeted. A few departments are “slightly over,” particularly the insurance category since premiums are usually paid for the full year. He said that the expenditures for Public Safety, Public Works, and Health and Welfare are flat. Any line items which are over the 2022 projections are usually due to the timing of payments or encumbrances which need to be made by a certain deadline. Mr. Rooney said that, on an encumbrance basis, the Village is approximately 60% of budget but still well within the guidelines.
Regarding the Water Utility, Mr. Rooney said that rents represent approximately 45% of what was anticipated, due to the timing of billings and continued water restrictions which limit revenues. PFAS treatment charges and water rate increases will be billed in July 2022. Overall, the actual revenues as of June 30, 2022 are about 44% of what was anticipated in the 2022 Budget. The actual appropriations are about 37% of what was anticipated in the 2022 Budget.
Mr. Rooney indicated that with regard to the Parking Utility Fund, the actual revenues as of June 30, 2022 are at 50% compared to what was anticipated in the 2022 Budget, which he said was very encouraging. Regarding appropriations, expenses are at approximately 44% of what had been anticipated for the first six months of 2022.
Councilwoman Perron asked Mr. Rooney to confirm that the Village is no longer receiving revenues from the Park and Ride, and Mr. Rooney said that she was correct. Ms. Mailander added that the Village no longer has the expenses associated with the Park and Ride, either, such as paving, striping, plowing and landscaping.
Mayor Knudsen asked Mr. Rooney to further discuss the status of the Hudson Street Parking Garage. Mr. Rooney explained that parking revenue is received from multiple sources: all parking lots, on-street parking, and the parking garage. Revenue is not broken down into subcategories. The debt service that is required to be paid on the bonds which were issued to build the garage is covered by revenues from all parking sources.
2. 2022 BUDGET AMENDMENT – MUNICIPAL ALLIANCE GRANT
Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to a 2022 Budget Amendment for the Municipal Alliance Grant. This revenue was not anticipated when the 2022 Budget was adopted, so the first Budget Amendment Resolution permits the Village to add grant revenue and appropriation to the 2022 Budget. The second resolution permits the Village to transfer funds from the Recreation Department-Other Expense, to meet its financial obligations for matching funds for the Municipal Alliance Grant. The grant funds will provide funding for drug and alcohol awareness programs for the community.
3. AWARD CONTRACT – LASERFICHE UPGRADES – IT
Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract for Laserfiche upgrades for the IT Department. Laserfiche scans Village documents, with a feature that allows for easy searching by word or phrase. Ms. Mailander indicated that the Village Clerk’s Office has electronically scanned documents back to the year 2000, including ordinances, resolutions, agendas, minutes and contracts. Awarding the contract will be beneficial to the Village by increasing productivity, especially concerning Open Public Records Act (OPRA) requests, and will also be beneficial to the public, since there will be a public portal on the Village website which the public can use to search for documents.
Dylan Hansen, Director of the IT Department, said that this contract is for the purchase of additional IT upgrades and ten additional licenses. The Village currently has 15 licenses, which means that 15 people can search simultaneously for public resolutions and ordinances on the public portal of the Village website. An error message occurs if more than 15 people search at the same time. Obtaining additional licenses will alleviate this problem. Additional licenses may be purchased in the future if there is increased usage by the public. Ms. Mailander added that the additional licenses will also allow additional departments to be able to go on and do Laserfiche as well. The Finance Department uses it for their purchase orders and requisitions. She is looking to add the Building Department and Health Department, so that the staff may manage and upload documents to the Village repository.
Ms. Mailander indicated that this is an award of contract under State Contract to SHI of Somerset, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $24,256.50. Funding is in the IT Capital Budget.
4. AWARD SOLE SOURCE CONTRACT – SCADA SYSTEM UPGRADES – WATER POLLUTION CONTROL FACILITY
Ms. Mailander explained that this is a recommendation to award a Sole Source Contract for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system upgrades, which system is used to operate the wastewater treatment plant and pump stations for the Water Pollution Control Facility (WPCF). The current SCADA system is almost 20 years old and is failing. It is recommended that the software support contract be awarded to Emerson Process Management Power and Water Solutions, Inc., of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in an amount not to exceed $35,619.57, for a three-year period. Funding is in the WPCF Capital Account.
5. AWARD COOPERATIVE PURCHASING CONTRACT – FENCING AT GRAYDON POOL PARKING LOT - RECREATION
Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the awarding of a County contract under the Cooperative Purchasing Program for fencing at the Graydon Pool parking lot. This is for the purchase and installation of a two rail, black locust/split rail fence and one pedestrian open gate along Linwood Avenue and Northern Parkway. It is recommended that this contract be awarded to Fox Fence of Clifton, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $22,649.00. Funding for this purchase is in the 2019 Recreation Capital Budget. This fencing would replace the current fence and the new fence will extend slightly around the corner to Northern Parkway to the “EXIT” sign at the Graydon lot. The current fence is old, worn and rotting.
Councilwoman Perron said that there was not a gate there now. Ms. Mailander clarified that this gate opening (not really a gate) would be installed near the sidewalk.
6. AWARD COOPERATIVE PURCHASING CONTRACT – CAR CAMERAS – POLICE
Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract under the Cooperative Purchasing Program for car cameras for the Police Department. The current WatchGuard Mobile Video Recording (MVR) system has long passed its useful life and warranty. For the past few years, the Police Department has had difficulty maintaining the system. Following the successful deployment of the Axon Body Worn Cameras (BWC) last year, research was done by the Police Department and it was determined that the Fleet 3 system by Axon would be the best system for the department to use in police vehicles. The system will integrate seamlessly with their current BWCs and the current redaction package will work with this system as well.
The cost of this system includes the installation of the system in 17 vehicles, warranty, and complete equipment refresh after five years. It is recommended that this contract be awarded under State contract to Axon Enterprise, Inc., of Scottsdale, Arizona, in the amount of $212,168.00. Funding is in the Police Department Capital Budget. Once the purchase order is issued, delivery is anticipated in 12 months.
Councilwoman Perron asked how old the current system is. Police Chief Jacqueline Luthcke replied that the system is close to ten years old.
7. AWARD COOPERATIVE PURCHASING CONTRACT – FIREFIGHTER BAILOUT SYSTEM GEAR
Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract under the Cooperative Purchasing Program for the purchase of firefighter bailout systems for the Fire Department. This purchase will replace their current bailout devices that have reached the end of their useful life, per the manufacturer. The lowest responsible quote was received by Strategic Safety Dynamics of Smithtown, New York, in an amount not to exceed $35,959.75. Funding is in the Fire Department Capital Budget. This purchase will include bailout systems for all members, three training devices, and training classes for five members. Ms. Mailander explained what a bailout system is: the device gets clipped onto a window sill and then to the firefighter, and the carabiner slowly lowers the firefighter to the ground.
Chief John Judge of the Fire Department explained that it will take approximately four months for the equipment to be received, after which some firefighters will undergo training. Those firefighters will then train the remaining members of the Fire Department on its usage.
8. AWARD COOPERATIVE PURCHASING CONTRACT – FIREFIGHTER TURNOUT GEAR
Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract under the Cooperative Purchasing Program for the purchase of 11 sets of turnout gear for the Fire Department. This Ricochet Turnout Gear will be purchased through Strategic Safety Dynamics of Smithtown, New York, in an amount not to exceed $34,837.00. Funding is in the Fire Department Capital Account. This new equipment will replace old, outdated gear. When questioned by Councilman Vagianos, Chief Judge explained that this gear consists of bunker pants and the coats worn by firefighters when they must respond to a fire emergency. He said that the term “turnout gear” could also include helmets, gloves, hood, and boots, but this purchase is only for pants and coats.
9. AWARD COOPERATIVE PURCHASING CONTRACT – AMBULANCE - FIRE
Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the purchase of an ambulance under the Houston-Galveston Area Council Cooperative. The ambulance would be a 2022 Wheeled Coach Type 1, 170” Module, Ford F-450, 4 x 4 and would be purchased from Firefighter One of Sparta, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $235,402.00. This would replace Ambulance #11, which is a 2002 ambulance with over 57,000 miles. The low-end replacement for ambulances is five to eight years and the high end is 14 years, so at 20 years with a 20-month build time, Ambulance 11 needs to be replaced. The new ambulance will meet updated safety standards and fix many other issues encountered with the current ambulance. Funding is in the Fire Department Capital Account.
Councilman Vagianos asked what will be done with the old ambulance. Chief Judge said that some parts of the ambulance may be removed for use in a utility transport vehicle. Some private businesses also purchase old ambulances and use them as work trucks. Councilman Vagianos asked whether Ambulance 11 could be sold, and Chief Judge replied that it could be sold rather than be junked. However, it will be almost two years before the new ambulance is built, so he will make an appropriate determination at that time.
Councilwoman Perron asked how many ambulances the Village will own once the new ambulance is purchased. Chief Judge said that after Ambulance 11 is sold, the Village will own three ambulances. Chief Judge added that they recently had four emergency calls at the same time.
10. AWARD COOPERATIVE PURCHASING CONTRACT –POWERLOAD FOR AMBULANCE – FIRE
Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract under the Cooperative Purchasing Program for a Stryker Power Load Lift System for the Fire Department. This is being purchased separately from the ambulance in order to save money. This is a powered system that contains a stretcher fastener, which improves safety for both the operator and patient by supporting the stretcher for the entire loading and unloading process. By purchasing directly from the manufacturer utilizing the Bergen County Cooperative, a total of $3,750.00 was saved from the final price. The Power Load is currently in all three Village ambulance and studies have shown a significant reduction in stretcher-related injuries for staff and improved patient care. It is recommended that the contract be awarded under County contract to Stryker Medical of Chicago, Illinois, in an amount not to exceed $24,164.20. Funding is in the Fire Department Capital Account.
Councilwoman Perron asked if the Power Load in Ambulance 11 could be used in the new ambulance being purchased. Chief Judge replied that it potentially could be used in the new ambulance; however, the Power Load in Ambulance 11 is already eight to ten years old. If it were used in the new ambulance, it would have to be removed from Ambulance 11 and sent to the dealer for installation in the new ambulance. This would mean that there would be one less ambulance in use in the Village for emergencies. In addition, if the Power Load were left in Ambulance 11, it could be sold with the ambulance to generate extra revenue.
Mayor Knudsen said that she recalled new Power Loads were purchased only a couple of years ago. Chief Judge said that he would check his records and let her know the age of the current Power Loads.
11. AWARD COOPERATIVE PURCHASING CONTRACT –MANHOLE FRAMES AND WATERTIGHT COVERS – STREETS
Ms. Mailander explained that this item deals with the awarding of a contract for the purchase, through the Bergen County Cooperative Purchasing Program, of manhole frames and covers to replace the old ones on roads being resurfaced by Bergen County this year in the Village. The Streets Department also needs to replenish their inventory of the covers and frames. The frames and covers will be watertight ones to help reduce sanitary sewer collection system inflow/infiltration problems. It is recommended that this contract be awarded to Campbell Foundry of Harrison, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $39,400.00. Funding is in the Street Department Capital Account.
12. AWARD CONTRACT – CROSSING GUARD SERVICES – POLICE
Ms. Mailander indicated that the Village went out for bid for crossing guard services, but no bids were received, although there were two plan holders. The Village went out for rebid and received one bid package from All City Management Services, a registered plan holder in Santa Fe Springs, California, in an amount not to exceed $494,511.00 for 31 morning and 31 afternoon school crossing guard posts for one school year. This is a 31.4% increase ($118,307.00) from their previous bid of $376,204.00 per year, due to higher salaries at $22.00 an hour in order to incentivize people to work. Ms. Mailander indicated that this contract is primarily funded through the Police Department Budget.
Ms. Mailander stated that this company would run the entire school crossing guard program, including hiring the guards, doing the scheduling, and providing coverage in the case of absences. If the company cannot find coverage at any time, they notify the Police Department so that a Police Officer or Parking Enforcement Officer can fulfill those duties at a certain post. The Village does not have to provide the guards with uniforms, materials, or transportation logistics. It is recommended that this contract be awarded for one year. There is an option for a second year contract, which will be reviewed at the appropriate time.
Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the first time All City Management Services was used, they took care of mostly everything. The cost to obtain crossing guards for a school year has been increasing steadily over the past few years, with the expense now being close to $500,000. Deputy Mayor Sedon asked at what point would it be more expensive to obtain the crossing guards through the outside company as opposed to what the Village had been doing in the beginning (supplying crossing guards in-house).
Mr. Rooney replied that the Village is currently at a “break even” point. If the Village were to supply guards on its own at the current time, the cost of salaries, equipment, training, fringe benefits, unemployment benefits and uniforms would amount to what All City Management Services is charging. By awarding this contract, more police officers would be able to be “on the street” to perform their usual responsibilities rather than performing school crossing guard duties. There would also be a savings to the Village in terms of police overtime. If police officers were used as crossing guards, charges would be incurred for salaries and vehicle usage. He said that going with this contract for a year would give the Village time to evaluate other processes in order to hire school crossing guards. Given that school will be starting shortly, Mr. Rooney said that the Village should move ahead with this contract. Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that he agreed with Mr. Rooney but wanted to make sure that this matter is revisited before the next school year.
Councilwoman Perron asked how well All City Management Services has performed in the past. Chief Luthcke said that, besides during the Covid pandemic, they have had no issues with their performance. This company is constantly recruiting employees and has a good local manager who coordinates all the guards’ schedules. She stated that she has experienced a very positive working relationship with them. Mayor Knudsen remarked that the Village actually received an award for their crossing guard program, which reflected well upon the Village. She said that she agreed with Deputy Mayor Sedon that this issue needs to be revisited and re-evaluated. Chief Luthcke remarked that the Village was the first municipality in the State to use this company, and many other towns have gotten on board with this company since that time.
Councilman Vagianos reminded everyone how difficult it has been to find people who want to work in various capacities throughout the Village, such as struggling to find lifeguards to work at Graydon Pool. He said that $22.00 an hour is the “new normal” and, given the current climate as far as trying to find people who want to work, he feels that the Village should award this contract.
Councilwoman Reynolds asked if the Village would receive a “credit” on the contract amount if All City Management Services could not provide coverage and the Village had to employ a police officer to act as a crossing guard. Chief Luthcke replied that the company would not bill the Village for the time period during which a police officer had to fulfill that role.
Ms. Mailander said that she will move ahead with the awarding of this contract, with further re-evaluation in the future.
13. AWARD CONTRACT – AMMUNITION - POLICE
Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract under State contract for the purchase of ammunition for the Police Department, required for their mandatory training and duty use. It is recommended that the contract be awarded to Eagle Point Gun/T. J. Morris & Son – New Jersey, of Thorofare, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $35,790.69. The funding for this purchase is in the Police Department Operating Budget.
Councilwoman Perron asked if ammunition which is unused in any given year can be saved for use in the following year, or whether the ammunition expires. Chief Luthcke replied that any unused ammunition can be used the following year.
D. POLICY
1. REVIEW OF PROPOSALS – MUNICIPAL ENERGY AGGREGATION PROGRAM
Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the review of proposals submitted for the Municipal Energy Aggregation Program. Councilwoman Perron stated that three bids were received from different companies (Good Energy LP, Gabel Associates and Taurus Advisory Group) to be the consultant/broker for the Energy Aggregation Program or, as referred to in the Village, Encouraging Alternative Green Energy for Ridgewood (EAGER). The consultant will be paid by the third party supplier. Councilwoman Perron explained that the consultant’s job is very important in terms of guiding the Village towards the best time to enter the energy market, when Requests for Proposal should be sent out, and evaluating bids when they are received. She indicated that the Village Councilmembers may want to interview representatives from all three companies before making a decision.
Members of the Green Ridgewood Subcommittee felt that two of these companies (Good Energy LP and Gabel Associates) submitted very good offers. They were less impressed with the bid from Taurus Advisory Group. It is the suggestion of the subcommittee that the Village Councilmembers interview representatives from these two consultancy companies. Gabel Associates has worked with the Village in the past, giving a presentation in 2021 via Zoom and answering questions. Councilwoman Perron stated that Gabel Associates has been in the forefront of energy aggregating and renewable energy aggregating in New Jersey. The principals of that company worked for the Board of Public Utilities, have been influential in Trenton, and have rendered expert testimony in court.
Councilwoman Perron stated that Good Energy LP has offices all over the United States and also has an impressive background. However, the subcommittee felt that their approach was a bit more customized for Ridgewood. Councilwoman Perron stated that when she engaged in a training webinar regarding energy aggregation, the consensus of the participants was that Gabel Associates was the company that Ridgewood should hire as consultants. She stated that it was up to the Village Councilmembers whether or not they wanted to interview the representatives of these companies.
Councilman Vagianos thanked Councilwoman Perron for the countless hours she has spent on obtaining all of this information. He feels that an energy aggregation program will be beneficial to Ridgewood residents. He agrees with her recommendation of interviewing these companies to learn more information before a final decision is made. Mayor Knudsen indicated that if the Village Councilmembers were going to conduct interviews, she would like to interview all three companies. It was decided that interviews would be conducted with all three companies.
Councilwoman Perron stated that the subcommittee is developing a list of questions which could be used by the Village Councilmembers during the interview process. She will pass along these questions to the Village Councilmembers.
Ms. Mailander indicated that the interviews could be conducted either during a Work Session or Special Public Meeting. She estimated that an hour would be required for each of the three interviews, including a presentation and question-and-answer session. She thought that, unless there was an extremely brief Work Session, a Special Public Meeting would be better, perhaps held on a Monday evening. She will submit some dates in September to the Village Councilmembers so that they can decide on a mutually agreeable date and time to conduct the interviews.
Mayor Knudsen recalled that one of the members of the subcommittee, Beth Creller, had indicated that time was of the essence regarding a decision related to the energy aggregation program. Councilwoman Perron clarified that the Village Council needs to make a decision by “bid day.” The consultant sends information the week prior to the energy auction. Time is of the essence because there is more competition if bids are reviewed and a decision is made on the same day as the auction. As time marches on, the market changes rapidly and bidders need to know the timeframe within which they are bidding.
Councilman Vagianos said it was his understanding that when the consultant indicates that “now is the time to get in,” the Village needs to be prepared and “ready to pull the trigger immediately.” “Time of the essence” does not mean that the Village Council needs to rush to choose a consultant.
E. OPERATIONS
1. PROPOSED STOP SIGN – ALANON ROAD
Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to a proposed stop sign being installed on the northbound Eastside Avenue approach to Alanon Road. This would improve safety for motorists using Alanon Road, due to the fact that vehicles using Eastside Avenue as a cut through to avoid the traffic light at Grove Street and South Pleasant Avenue are not exercising sufficient caution at that intersection. The Village Engineer conducted a field examination of the intersection area and noted that a motorist heading north on Eastside Avenue approaching Alanon Road has a poor line of sight to the left at traffic heading eastbound on Alanon Road. A new stop sign is being recommended at the subject location.
2. PROPOSED STOP SIGN – HIGHLAND AVENUE AND GREENWAY ROAD
Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to a proposed stop sign being installed on the Highland Avenue approaches to Greenway Road and the Greenway Road approach to Knollwood Road. Mr. Rutishauser conducted a field examination of the Greenway Road area and the westbound Greenway Road approach to Knollwood Road. As westbound Greenway reaches Knollwood, the grade of Greenway reduces the sight lines of traffic on Knollwood. Westbound Greenway would benefit from a stop sign at Knollwood. Yield signs are used on Highland Avenue’s approaches to Greenway Road to regulate traffic. These yield signs have not been memorialized by any Village ordinance. Accordingly, the Village Engineer is recommending the installation of new stop signs on both sides of Highland Avenue at Greenway Road as well as at Greenway Road westbound at Knollwood Road.
3. AUTHORIZE EXECUTION OF CONTRACT WITH BERGEN COUNTY – SNOW PLOWING OF COUNTY ROADS – STREETS
Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the execution of a contract with Bergen County for snow plowing of County roads, which is done every two years. This ensures that the County roads get plowed concurrently with the local roads in Ridgewood. This is a Shared Services Agreement. The County reimbursement rate is $115.00 per hour as detailed in the agreement. This resolution would authorize the Mayor, Village Manager and Village Clerk to execute the agreement (2022 to 2024 snow seasons).
Councilman Vagianos asked if the $115.00 per hour is the same rate of reimbursement from the County for the past two years. Ms. Mailander replied that there has been an increase of approximately $5.00 per hour. Councilman Vagianos asked if the Village makes any money on this or whether it was a “break even” scenario. Ms. Mailander replied that this allows the County roads to be plowed at the same time with Village roads. Otherwise, it is uncertain when the County would send a crew to Ridgewood to plow its County roads. The price is non-negotiable.
4. AUTHORIZE EXECUTION OF MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING – CANCER CONTROL PLAN, EARLY DETECTION EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND TUBERCULOSIS CONTROL – HEALTH DEPARTMENT
Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to an authorization to execute a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which contains agreements for services regarding a Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan, New Jersey Cancer Education and Early Detection Program, Tuberculosis Control and Public Health Emergency Preparedness Program. The Bergen County Department of Health receives grant money to be the lead agency for offering services to local health departments. There is no fee for these services, but it is a required service under the Public Health Practice Standards.
5. AUTHORIZE EXECUTION OF AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN FIREFIGHTER GRANT – FIRE
Ms. Mailander explained that this is a resolution to authorize submission of an application for the American Rescue Plan Firefighter Grant for the Ridgewood Fire Department for Fiscal Year 2022 in an amount not to exceed $75,000.00. These funds will be used to purchase firefighter turnout gear and Scott Air-Paks. This grant is available through the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. The Village will provide at least a 5% matching grant.
6. DECLARE SURPLUS – VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT – STREETS
Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to a resolution to declare surplus property of the Department of Public Works. The surplus property consists of vehicles and equipment used by various departments throughout the Village which are no longer mechanically viable. There are many vehicles and pieces of equipment with extensive corrosion and expensive repair needs. These items are taking up valuable space while only decaying further, reducing their value. This resolution will authorize the surplus property to be auctioned on Govdeals.com.
7. 2023 VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING DATES
Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to confirming the 2023 Village Council meeting dates. These dates are set at this time so that they can be ready to publish on the Village calendar for 2023, and Ms. Mailander can use these dates when she prepares the bid packets for the preparation of the 2023 Village Council meeting minutes. All Public Work Sessions are held on the first and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 7:30 P.M., Public Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at 8:00 P.M., and Special Public Meetings (Pre-Meeting Conference) are held at 7:30 P.M. Ms. Mailander indicated that the only conflicting date is April 5, which is the first night of Passover. It is recommended that that Work Session meeting be moved to Monday night, April 3, 2023. Other than that exception, all meetings will follow the regular schedule. During July, August, November and December, only two meetings will be held on the first and second Wednesdays of each respective month.
In addition, Ms. Mailander indicated that she would like to schedule “Coffee with the Council” on September 9, 2023 (the usual time, which is the first Saturday after Labor Day).
6. REVIEW OF AUGUST 10, 2022 PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA
There are two Proclamations: Declare September Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and Declare September National Preparedness Month. There will be the swearing-in of Police Officers Christopher Schumann and William Malone. There are no ordinances for introduction or public hearing for Ridgewood Water, and no resolutions for Ridgewood Water on the August 10, 2022 Public Meeting Agenda.
Introduction of Ordinances include: Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Restrict Parking for Improvement of Sight Obstructions on Morningside Road and California Street; Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Establish Stop Signs on Eastside Avenue at Alanon Road; Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Establish Stop Signs on Highland Avenue at Greenway Road and Greenway Road at Knollwood Road; Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Parking Regulations in the Municipal Complex Parking Lot; and Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Parking Spaces for New Ridgewood Water Headquarters.
Regarding the Ordinance to Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Parking Regulations in the Central Business District, Ms. Mailander said that she would like to introduce this Ordinance on September 7, 2022 and then schedule a Special Public Meeting on September 28, 2022 for adoption of this Ordinance. In this way, the Ordinance can become effective on October 18, 2022. If it is not heard until the Public Meeting scheduled for September 14, 2022, the Ordinance will not be adopted until October 12, 2022 and will not become effective until November 1, 2022. Ms. Mailander indicated that the goal is to have these shared loading zones and 15-minute metered parking spaces in effect well before the holidays, during which time there is additional traffic in the CBD. The earlier that the Ordinance becomes effective, the sooner that visitors to the CBD will become used to the new parking regulations.
A Public Hearing for Ordinance #3914 regarding Amending Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Window Displays for Vacant Storefronts will be continued until September. The Planning Board still needs to review the Ordinance and provide feedback and approval to the Village Council.
Resolutions include: Award Contract – Firefighter Bailout Systems; Award Sole Source Contract – SCADA System Software Support for Water Pollution Control Facility; Award Contract Under County Contract for Purchase and Installation of Fencing at the Graydon Pool Parking Lot; Award Contract Under County Contract – Manhole Frames and Watertight Covers; Award Contract Under State Contract – LaserFiche Upgrades; Award Contract Under State Contract – Police Car Cameras; Award Contract Under State Contract – Police Ammunition; Award Contract Under State Contract – Firefighter Turnout Gear; Award Contract Under Houston-Galveston Area Council Cooperative Purchasing – Ambulance; Authorize Shared Services Agreement – Snowplowing (Bergen County); Authorize Execution of Memorandum of Understanding – Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan, New Jersey Cancer Education and Early Detection Program, Tuberculosis Control, and Public Health Emergency Preparedness Program (Bergen County Department of Health); Authorize Submission of Application – American Rescue Plan Firefighter Grant; Chapter 159 – Accept Bergen County Department of Health Services – Municipal Alliance Grant Program; Authorize Correction to 2022 Budget – Transfer of Funds to Provide for Municipal Alliance Grant Matching Funds; Declare Property Surplus – Various Vehicles and Equipment; and Appoint Members to Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) (to extend terms to December so that they will have the opportunity to appoint members once the new Village Councilmembers take office).
Ms. Mailander indicated that the Resolution regarding the Awarding of a Contract Under County Contract for the Stryker Power Load for the new Ambulance will be taken off the agenda until such time as Chief Judge finds out if the Power Load from Ambulance 11 can be used in the new ambulance instead. The new ambulance will not be received until 20 months from now, so there is enough time to hear this matter at a later date. Mayor Knudsen asked if the pricing of the new Power Load will be compromised if it is ultimately decided to purchase a new one at a later date rather than using the old Power Load. Ms. Mailander replied that she will ask Chief Judge about this and indicated that the new Power Load is being purchased through the Bergen County Cooperative Purchasing Program. Mayor Knudsen indicated that the Resolution could always be passed on August 10, 2022 and then stricken in the future if necessary, and Ms. Mailander agreed. She will ask Chief Judge when the contract expires. This item will be kept on the agenda.
Ms. Mailander asked if there were any items which the Councilmembers wanted off of the consent agenda, and there were none.
7. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that the Graydon Pool notifications on the Recycle Coach app are “really cool.” She is happy that the hours of operation at the pool will not be cut during the month of August. However, she is still unhappy with the fact that the pool closes at 6:00 P.M. every evening, as many other people are. She wondered if the pool will be closed during the week before Labor Day, as it has been in the past. Ms. Loving asked if there could be a “Dog Day” at Graydon Pool after the pool has closed for the summer. She added that Ridgewood dog owners are very responsible people and no staff would be required.
Regarding the crossing guard comments heard this evening, Ms. Loving said that a comparison had been made between crossing guard wages and lifeguard wages. Both are very important jobs in terms of safety, but Ms. Loving stated that the job of a crossing guard is an incredibly dangerous job. A friend of hers who was a crossing guard was almost killed on a number of occasions by “idiotic drivers” speeding past her, cursing, or beeping their horn at her while she was performing her duties to protect children. In addition, this job requires a “split shift” where crossing guards must be at their posts at various times during the day. Crossing guards must also work during any kind of weather. Ms. Loving said that crossing guards deserve a tremendous amount of respect and she is happy to see that they are being well paid.
Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, indicated that he wanted to comment on some remarks made by Mr. Calbi regarding water conservation. Mr. Calbi mentioned the placards that homeowners with Smart Controllers needed to display either in their front window or on a stick in their front yard, and also mentioned that his staff performs inspections at night to see if any resident is in violation of the water conservation guidelines. Mr. Loving asked how employees can possibly see the placard, especially in a window, if enforcement is done at night, unless a spotlight is aimed directly at the front of a house.
Mr. Loving indicated that, by Mr. Calbi’s own admission, hot weather will cause the Smart Controllers to activate more often. He still does not understand how this could possibly promote water conservation. Those homeowners without Smart Controllers are restricted to watering only twice a week during certain hours. If the weather is hot, the 292 households in Ridgewood with Smart Controllers will be watering seven days a week. He asked why Mr. Calbi cannot pull the “consumption rates” for those households with Smart Controllers to see if they are in violation of the Water Conservation Ordinance, by comparing past and prior usage and taking into account weather conditions during those time periods. Mr. Loving stated that rain sensors are not unique to Smart Controllers. By ordinance, rain sensors are required for everyone who has an underground sprinkler system.
Regarding Councilwoman Reynolds’ comments about the parking spaces in front of the new Ridgewood Water headquarters, Mr. Loving stated that it was his opinion that parking should not be allowed at that location after 4:30 P.M., because vehicles parked there after that time will make it more dangerous for pedestrians who are using the nearby crosswalk. Ridgewood Water closes at 4:30 P.M. and, therefore, Mr. Loving stated that there will be no need for anyone to park there after that time to conduct business. The ordinance should state that parking is only permitted in these spots from 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M., Monday through Friday only.
Regarding students parking in the Municipal Complex parking lot, Mr. Loving asked why the students park in that location. He asked if it might be a safety issue. When he and his wife are utilizing the track at Veterans Field, they have noticed that it is primarily young female students who are parking in the lot. Mr. Loving wondered whether these young women do not feel safe walking down the path (behind the tree line) from the Graydon South parking lot to the high school. He thinks that the students need to be questioned why they are parking there.
For the record, Mr. Loving indicated that the question asked by Mayor Knudsen about the anonymous email sent regarding approximately 200 sidewalk violations in the Village was not answered by the Village Manager. He wondered who would benefit from sending such an email. In addition, Mr. Loving had asked about some parking issues on North Maple Avenue at a prior meeting, and Ms. Mailander promised him that the signs would be installed the following day. Mr. Loving said that the “No Parking” signs were not installed outside of the NoMa apartments. He also mentioned that the parking spaces in front of the new Ridgewood Water headquarters have not yet been authorized by resolution.
There were no further comments from the public.
Mayor Knudsen indicated that they will investigate the anonymous email to see who may have sent it. Ms. Mailander indicated that the “No Parking” signs in front of NoMa were supposed to be reinstalled on the day following Mr. Loving’s initial comments, but she will need to follow up with the County to see why the signs were not reinstalled. Mayor Knudsen said that there is a “No Parking Anytime” sign just beyond the cutout, but she did not see any within the cutout.
Regarding the anonymous email, Councilwoman Reynolds stated that if a tree is going to be cut down due to sidewalk construction or repair, apparently the Village Arborist has already inspected the tree. Mayor Knudsen stated that Mr. Loving’s question actually dealt with whether or not the person who sent the anonymous email sought to benefit monetarily from the email. With all due respect to Mr. Loving, Councilman Vagianos indicated that he didn’t think so much time needed to be spent trying to find out who sent the anonymous email. He wondered what possible action could be taken after the Village found out who sent the email, since it was not illegal to send an email. Mayor Knudsen said that she felt it was probably not a Ridgewood resident who went around town recording sidewalks which were in need of repair, but that it probably was a contractor who was hoping for financial gains. She indicated that she was interested in finding out who actually sent the email.
8. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION
Deputy Clerk Eileen Young read Resolution #22-274, to go into Closed Session as follows:
9. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Sedon seconded by Councilwoman Reynolds, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 10:04 P.M.
Susan Knudsen
Mayor
Eileen Young
Deputy Village Clerk
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